FAQs
For Installers
What are the minimum technical requirements?
The Alpha7 needs to be permanently connected to a regular 230V RCD protected supply. It can be fitted indoors or outdoors, surface or post mounted, and must be fitted at a height of between 0.9 and 1.5m from the ground. There are no access restrictions. No WiFi signal or network connection is needed, although a WiFi signal or an EtherNet cable will be needed if you want to access your charger remotely. The Alpha7 is suitable for private domestic and private workplace locations.
Is the Alpha7 easy to install?
The Alpha7 has been designed with the installer in mind. The box insert contains a helpful template to aid in marking out the 4 stainless steel mounting screws (supplied). High-quality DeWalt fixing plugs are also included. The supply cable can be fitted from any direction. Extra finger space in the terminal chamber and extra-large terminal apertures will ease installation. Simple DIP-switch selection configures the output current limit, dynamic load-balancing option, and load sharing. You’ll be done in no time!
Does the Alpha7 need an earth rod?
The Alpha7 has built-in PEN ground-fault protection in accordance with the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, section 722.411.4.1 iv. An integral 30mA AC and 6mA DC earth leakage protection device is also included. An earth rod or an expensive external PME PEN fault protection device is not required.
Do I need to install the home "Dynamic load-balancing"?
Installers should consider the main incomer fuse rating, the existing installed load, and whether the addition of an EV charger will likely lead to overloading. The Alpha7 dynamic load monitoring kit is an easy and inexpensive solution to ensure safe and reliable installations. Don't forget to select one on your order!
Are cable glands pre-fitted?
No: differing cable size requirements and a variety of possible cable entry points would mean that we would inevitably supply you product with the wrong size of gland in the wrong place. The Alpha7 housing helpfully has a number of "dimples" in useful places for correct gland placement, depending on cable configuration. We do provide a gland with the CT coil which is used for Dynamic Load balancing or for Solar integration.
For Users
How long will it take to install?
A simple installation can be done by an experienced electrician in a couple of hours. It can sometimes take a little longer if the installation has more complicated requirements. The best electricians have busy diaries, so it might take a couple of weeks to get a charger installed, depending on everyone’s diaries. Let us know if you need an installation more quickly than this, we can normally help out: our friendly team will work with you to find a quick installation solution for you.